Warning over Seanad reform plan

DOUBTS were expressed last night over the Government’s plans to reform the Seanad in the wake of a report which suggested increasing the number of senators to 65.

The package also proposes allowing the general public to elect 26 senators, reducing the number elected by public representatives to 20 and extending voting rights for the university panel of six senators to all universities and institutes.

The report by a sub-committee of senators said the Taoiseach would be allowed to nominate 12 senators.

But Fianna Fáil sources said there would be little appetite for the changes in the party, particularly as increasing the number of senators would be difficult to sell to the public. They also warned politicians will be reluctant to see the number they could elect cut.

Meanwhile, Labour poured cold water over the willingness of ministers to implement the plans.

Labour senator Brendan Ryan said: “To take Seanad reform seriously, you first have to take the Seanad seriously. This government has shown little respect for the Seanad.”